Oakey and District Amateur Swimming Club supported by Neville Cherry Pest Control and others as memberships double

At more than half a century old, a Downs’ swimming club is back in full swing with the $800k refurbishment of the town’s facilities now complete.

An Oakey business owner has dedicated thousands of dollars towards the town’s swimming club, after it doubled its members in two years.

Neville Cherry of Neville Cherry Pest Control saw a lot of potential in the town’s recently refurbished facility and wanted to find a way to support anyone who wanted to try swimming.

“With the Olympics in less than 10 years, I wanted to find a way to give back to the community, and if there’s any kids, even ones that just want to swim or make a career out of it … financial costs shouldn’t come into it,” he said.

“We take swimming and the lessons for granted, so if there’s a way to give back and help these kids access it, that’s what I’m going to do.”

Millie Cherry, Nate Langton, Brock Cherry, Cooper Cherry and Adelyn Fahey all swim with the Oakey and District Amateur Swimming Club. Thursday, February 1, 2023. Picture: Morgan Burley

Established more than half a century ago, Oakey and District Amateur Swimming Club reportedly slowed down in members pre Covid-19, but due to the lockdown of restrictions and limitations on contact sports, has begun to bounce back.

Secretary Jade Gollan said the group had doubled in members in the last two years, with now more than 50 swimmers registered.

“It’s fantastic. There is never a short supply of volunteers willing to help us, and we have several sponsors who have helped us get the season up and running,” she said.

Millie Cherry, Cooper Cherry, Nate Langton, Brock Cherry and Adelyn Fahey all swim with the Oakey and District Amateur Swimming Club. Thursday, February 1, 2023. Picture: Morgan Burley

The club, which works in conjunction with the pool’s programs including Learn To Swim, said it was “so important” to teach kids how to swim and be safe around water.

“We’ve seen the amount of drowning (nationally) this summer, and it’s terribly sad,” she said.

“The more chances to offer lessons in the community, the better for the kids.

“We like to promote a safe and inclusive environment if kids are a bit nervous (in the water), and we have noddles and kickboards for those still wanting to come and participate but who still may be a bit nervous.”

With less than two months left of the swimming season, parents can still get involved in the club by visiting their Facebook page.